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Curriculum

Deeper Learning Framework

Aligning the Deeper Learning competencies with an asynchronous learning strategy can be highly effective in driving instructional planning that increases equitable opportunities. By aligning these competencies with asynchronous learning, instructional planning can be designed to support each student’s unique needs and provide equitable access to deeper learning experiences.
 

Here's how each competency aligns with the flexibility and personalized nature of asynchronous learning:

Academic Content
Students can engage with content at their own pace, allowing them to spend more time on challenging areas and move quickly through content they master easily. This personalized approach ensures that all students can achieve mastery, regardless of their starting point.
Collaboration
Collaboration in an asynchronous setting can take the form of projects, peer reviews, and group discussions that happen over time. This approach allows students to contribute when they are most focused and can lead to more meaningful and reflective collaboration.
Critical Thinking

Asynchronous environments often require students to independently navigate challenges and foster critical thinking. The flexibility in timing allows for deeper exploration of problems and creative solutions, with students having the freedom to revisit concepts and research further when needed.

Self-Directed Learning

The anytime, anywhere nature of asynchronous learning is inherently self-directed. Students must manage their time, set goals, and take responsibility for their learning, which directly supports the development of self-directed learning skills.

Communication

While face-to-face communication might be limited, asynchronous learning encourages diverse forms of communication, such as discussion boards, video messages, and written reflections. These formats can promote thoughtful, well-crafted communication, and students can engage in dialogues that span time zones and schedules, enriching their perspectives.

Academic Mindset

When students are given the autonomy to control their learning process, they often develop a stronger academic mindset. The confidence gained from mastering content at their own pace, solving problems independently, and collaborating with peers can lead to a more resilient and growth-oriented mindset.

Guaranteed And Viable Curriculum

“A guaranteed and viable curriculum (GVC) ensures that all students have an equal opportunity to learn. Each student will have access to an effective or highly effective teacher, and access to the same  content, knowledge and skills in each section or class (Marzano, 2003).  
 
The “I can” statements that you see by grade level are what is guaranteed at each school in the West Allis-West Milwaukee school district.  There will be many other areas included in instruction by class and by teacher based on the needs and interests of the student population.  Teachers will receive a guide by grade level to assist in planning for instruction, but there is also room for teachers to have flexibility to meet the needs of the learners in each class.